FUTURE-PROOFING AFRICAN MINING : BUILDING A RESILIENT , SAFE AND SUSTAINABLE INDUSTRY
Contributed by MEMSA and SAMPEC
MINING INDABA •
Supplied by Buraaq Mining Services
The Buraaq SD212i is a locally designed , fully mechanised roof bolter for use in underground mining operations
continent of developmental mining . To fully benefit from its natural resources Africa needs to add value on the continent . However , in order to do so we need skills , infrastructure , energy and most importantly capital – something we could potentially leverage off our mineral wealth .
Africa ' s mineral wealth has long been a cornerstone of economic growth , providing strategic resources critical to the global economy , while creating wealth , investment and employment on the continent . Mining activity for green minerals is set to grow by 600 % to satisfy global demand , and much of these resources lie in Africa . Yet , Africa ’ s advantage may be threatened by climate change , social and governance issues and technological advances .
Future-proofing Africa ’ s mining industry becomes essential for its long-term resilience . This transformation involves adapting to new technologies , developing local linkages to industry and skills pipelines , enhancing environmental and safety practices , and aligning with Environmental , Social and Governance ( ESG ) principles . “ Mining businesses need to work with innovation partners and equipment suppliers to reshape traditional thinking , redefine operations , and pave the way for a new era of mining that balances profit with progress ,” according to Mining Equipment Manufacturers of SA ( MEMSA ), chair Innocent Masinga .
The SA Mineral Processing Equipment Cluster ( SAMPEC ), was established to assist local OEMs realise the African vision for the
The 2024 MEMSA Mind Shift Conference on Innovation , Digital Technology and Skills in the SA Mining Supply Chain , aptly themed ' Smart Solutions for People and Planet ', brought together experts and thought leaders from the mining value chain to delve into reimagining the minerals industry , emphasising the importance of local entrepreneurship and innovation in achieving sustainable and technologically advanced mining practices .
Remaining competitive with innovation Innovation and adaptability have become the heart of the mining industry ’ s ability to remain competitive in a fast-changing world . Investment in technology to drive efficiencies and improve outcomes and automation , AI , and the IoT are now cornerstones of operations , helping companies streamline processes , increase productivity and reduce costs .
The annual Innovation for Mining Awards which form part of the conference , recognises local innovations developed and commercialised by local OEMs who supply and service the mining industry .
Tools which assist in predictive maintenance and foresee equipment failures can minimise costly downtimes and extend equipment lifespan . Sensors and tracking systems such as Simera
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